American Kestrel

From the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mountain-Prairie Region:

"A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush." -Miguel de Cervantes

Fun facts: The American kestrel may be our smallest falcon, but it is a fierce hunter that preys primarily on insects, small rodents, and birds. 

Opportunistic hunters, kestrels are known for perching high on stadium light stands and foul poles during evening sporting events, tracking moths and other insects in the powerful stadium lights, and catching these snacks in mid-flight. Some of their hunting antics are so impressive that they have made their way onto ESPN highlights!

Photo Credit: Nathan Rupert / Creative Commons